Monday, January 12, 2009

Happy Birthday - But Tough Good-Byes

My little Angel turned the big three this morning. What started out as a happy, playful morning unwrapping a few presents, soon turned into a sad reality: her end of in-home daily therapy.

The entire ABA Team was here for her final session this morning. Besides them attempting a few trials at PECS, it wasn't a session at all. Raquel listened to her music and opened presents from the team. We went through "the box" and set aside items that were ours (or are ours now!), and those that will be going to another family. Janine also put together a larger PECS book for her. Being larger allows her to have more picture items, plus I'll be able to add to it as more and more toys, books, etc. become preferred objects. Mike also stopped by for a little while to thank each of them and to say his good-byes.

We spent a good portion of our time talking about last week's IEP and Psychological Evaluation, and what my plans were. Right now they are to have Raquel's bloodwork done this week and to confirm that I am on the waiting list for the Neurologist. As far as the school goes, I'm still questionable on what direction to go in. I told the district that I was doing medical stuff this week and they have her pencilled in to start the following week - if I decide to go that route.

We mostly took goodbye pictures - this being one of my favorites. Notice Jennifer's Charger jersey. Even after losing a playoff game yesterday, she's still a big fan. :-)

Thanks for everything, ABA Team. You are an awesome group and we have been blessed to have you in our lives. And thanks for giving me a 6-year old therapist. I'm sure staying consistent won't ever be an issue.

Once that depressing good-bye was over, I still had one more left: Mary for Speech. Mary has seen Raquel for nearly a year, and we've gotten to know her very well. We haven't seen her for two weeks and Raquel was playing in Gabby's room when she pulled up and got a huge smile on her face when she saw who it was.

Mary came with all of her bags today - not wanting to hold anything back from Raquel on her last day - including the toys that would automatically go in her mouth.



She did her usual session with Raquel, who was unfortunately very quiet throughout. I was disappointed, but Mary was happy to hear about all of the new words and phrases she has been consistently using.

They took turns on the magna-doodle Mary bought for her birthday ...





... and played with and fed the bunny one last time ...



And then it was time for another good-bye. Thank you, Mary. It has been such a wonderful experience working with you. We appreciate all that you have done for Raquel, and for all that you have taught me to do in working with her. You will be very missed!

Happy Birthday, Raquel! We love you!

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